Oil and gas giant BP has announced the appointment to its board of Amanda Blanc as a non-executive director. Her appointment takes effect from 1 September.

Blanc joins from her role as group CEO of UK insurer Aviva plc. She was formerly group CEO at AXA UK, PPP & Ireland and a previous CEO of Europe, Middle East, Africa & global banking at Zurich Insurance Group. She has also held senior executive positions at Towergate Insurance Brokers, Groupama Insurance Company, and Commercial Union.

Blanc is co-chair of the Transition Plan Taskforce, which launched in April this year and is tasked with developing a gold standard for UK firms’ climate transition plans.

Helge Lund, chair of BP, said: “On behalf of the board, I am delighted to welcome Amanda to bp. She has long experience of leading insurance businesses in the UK and Europe and deep connections throughout the UK’s business and investment communities, allied to a strong interest in the energy transition.

“Amanda’s appointment reflects our continued commitment to strengthen the composition of bp’s board. The skills and experience Amanda brings will further enhance our ability to support bp as it transforms into an integrated energy company.”